Anwar said Malaysia would continue engaging Myanmar through Asean mechanisms and diplomatic channels, stressing that regional cooperation remains essential in addressing the root causes of the crisis.
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the Rohingya refugee crisis, strengthening migrant worker protection, and expanding bilateral economic cooperation, following a joint press conference between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today.
Both leaders placed strong emphasis on the Rohingya issue, agreeing to continue working together towards securing a safe, dignified and sustainable return of refugees to Myanmar.
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Anwar said Malaysia would continue engaging Myanmar through Asean mechanisms and diplomatic channels, stressing that regional cooperation remains essential in addressing the root causes of the crisis.
Labour cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides acknowledging the importance of Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia’s economy while highlighting the need to improve recruitment practices and safeguard worker welfare.
Anwar said foreign labour remains vital, but protection of workers must be prioritised.
“More importantly, we have to protect the welfare of the workers and their families. Exploitation and ill-treatment cannot be tolerated,” he said, calling for a more transparent and fair recruitment system.
Tarique echoed these concerns, urging for affordable and transparent hiring mechanisms that reduce intermediaries and prevent exploitation.
He also raised matters related to the regularisation of undocumented workers and repatriation processes where appropriate.
Both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in ensuring ethical recruitment and improved protection for migrant workers.
Beyond humanitarian and labour issues, the two leaders also agreed to elevate bilateral relations through a fast-tracked Free Trade Agreement (FTA), alongside expanded cooperation in trade, investment and emerging sectors.
Anwar said collaboration would extend into science, technology, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, energy and advanced manufacturing, reflecting a shift towards higher-value industries.
Tarique said Bangladesh was committed to building a business-friendly environment and invited Malaysian investors to explore opportunities in ICT, infrastructure, energy, halal industries, education, defence and digital technology.
He described Malaysia as a long-standing and trusted partner with strong people-to-people ties.
Both leaders also discussed regional integration, with Bangladesh expressing interest in becoming an Asean sectoral dialogue partner and joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), while Malaysia welcomed closer engagement.
On global issues, both sides exchanged views on developments in the Middle East and reaffirmed cooperation at the United Nations and other international platforms.
Tarique expressed confidence that the agreements would mark a new chapter in Bangladesh–Malaysia relations.
“I am confident that today’s discussion will open a new chapter in our relations,” he said.
